Thong Krut, Koh Tan and Koh Madsum by longtail
A slow wooden boat to two small islands off the south coast: sandy beaches, snorkelling and some famously relaxed pigs.
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- Area
- Island hopping
- Start from
- Thong Krut
- Distance
- a short longtail ride
- Time needed
- Half a day
- Best season
- January – September
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Transport
- Longtail boat from Thong Krut pier
- Tickets & rules
- Small landing fees on some islands
Why go
Thong Krut is a quiet fishing village on Samui's southern tip, and from its pier longtail boats run to Koh Tan and Koh Madsum, two small islands just offshore.
Koh Madsum has a long sandy beach and has become known for the pigs that wander the sand and sometimes paddle in the shallows. Koh Tan is greener and quieter, with a small community and coral close to shore.
The longtail ride itself, with its roaring engine and spray, is half the fun.
The story
Thong Krut has long been a fishing village, and its boats still head out at dusk with lights to attract squid.
The pigs of Koh Madsum became famous on social media in the 2010s, and the island's owners and residents now manage the flow of visitors.
Koh Tan once had larger coconut plantations; a few families still live there, making it feel like Samui several decades ago.
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Getting there
Drive to Thong Krut and walk to the pier; boatmen offer trips to both islands. Agree on the route, waiting time and price before you set off.
A suggested plan
- MorningLongtail to Koh Madsum; swim and walk the beach.
- MiddayContinue to Koh Tan for snorkelling and lunch.
- AfternoonReturn to Thong Krut and have fresh seafood in the village.
Where to stay
The south coast around Thong Krut and Taling Ngam.
Good to know
- Bring snorkel gear and water.
- Morning seas are usually calmer.
- Cash is needed for the boat and small fees.
- Don't feed the pigs junk food or chase them for selfies.
- Longtails can be wet; protect phones and cameras.